Apr 12, 2024
AVL Appoints New Chief Operations Officer
The Greater Asheville Regional Airport Authority (GARAA) has announced the appointment of Alexandra “Lexie” Farmer, C.M., A.C.E., as Chief Operations Officer (COO) at Asheville Regional Airport (AVL). The national recruitment process was managed by Steven Baldwin Associates (SBA), reaffirming the firm’s role as a leader in executive search for airports across the country.
Farmer brings more than 20 years of aviation leadership experience to her new position and will officially join AVL in May 2024.
👉 Learn more about Asheville Regional Airport
Farmer’s Leadership Background
Farmer most recently served as Airport Operations Director at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), where she led 10 operational teams, managed more than 300 employees, and oversaw an annual budget exceeding $70 million. She also played a strategic role in creating a new Airport Operations Division, where she advanced performance, business management, finance, governance, and project coordination initiatives.
Her earlier career includes operational leadership roles at airports nationwide, including:
Assistant Airport Operations Manager at Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE)
Airport Operations Supervisor at Dane County Regional Airport (MSN)
Landside Operations Supervisor, Aviation Planner, and Construction Coordinator at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
This wide-ranging experience has provided Farmer with a deep understanding of both day-to-day airport operations and long-term strategic planning.
Academic and Professional Credentials
Farmer holds a Master’s in Public Administration from Georgia State University and a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. She is also a Certified Member (C.M.) of the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE), an Airport Certified Employee (A.C.E.), and an Airport Security Coordinator (A.S.C.).
Her blend of academic achievement and professional certifications underscores her readiness to take on the COO role at AVL.
Farmer’s Vision for AVL
Reflecting on her new role, Farmer stated, “I am so excited to join the Greater Asheville Regional Airport Authority, and to be a part of the team that is working so hard to meet the demands of today while continuing to build for tomorrow. Asheville is growing, and I am eager to be part of planning for the airport of the future.”
Lew Bleiweis, President and CEO of GARAA, praised her appointment, saying, “Lexie rose to the top of a strong field of candidates from around the nation. Her passion for the airport industry, as well as her extensive experience leading complex operational initiatives at larger airports, will be a welcome addition to the senior management team at AVL.”
SBA’s Role in the Appointment
Steven Baldwin Associates managed the recruitment for this executive appointment. With decades of experience in executive search, governance, and airport consulting, SBA ensures airports identify leaders who combine technical expertise with strategic vision.
About Steven Baldwin Associates
Steven Baldwin Associates is dedicated exclusively to airport management consulting, providing services in governance, executive recruitment, financial strategy, and operational support. SBA has successfully partnered with airports across the U.S. to strengthen leadership and prepare for sustainable growth.
For more information, contact SBA at info@baldwinllc.com or visit the official website.
FAQs
1. Who was appointed COO at Asheville Regional Airport?
Alexandra “Lexie” Farmer, C.M., A.C.E., was appointed as Chief Operations Officer.
2. What is her professional background?
Farmer has over 20 years of aviation leadership experience, most recently serving as Airport Operations Director at CLT.
3. What are her academic qualifications?
She holds a Master’s in Public Administration from Georgia State University and a Bachelor’s in Aviation Management from Embry-Riddle.
4. What certifications does she hold?
She is a Certified Member (C.M.) of AAAE, an Airport Certified Employee (A.C.E.), and an Airport Security Coordinator (A.S.C.).
5. Who managed the recruitment process?
Steven Baldwin Associates conducted the national search and appointment.
6. When will she assume her role?
Farmer is scheduled to begin her role as COO in May 2024.
Conclusion
The appointment of Alexandra “Lexie” Farmer as Chief Operations Officer at Asheville Regional Airport marks another successful executive recruitment supported by Steven Baldwin Associates. Farmer’s extensive leadership experience and industry credentials make her uniquely suited to guide AVL through its next phase of growth, innovation, and service excellence.
By partnering with SBA, AVL has secured a proven leader who will help position the airport for future success in an increasingly competitive aviation landscape.
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